Knowledge and practices of in-home pesticide use: a community survey in Uganda

J Environ Public Health. 2011:2011:230894. doi: 10.1155/2011/230894. Epub 2011 Jun 5.

Abstract

Many communities in low-income countries use in-home pesticides for the control of pests. Such use is often inadequately controlled. In this study, 100 households in Kireka ward, Wakiso district in Uganda were involved in a cross-sectional survey to assess pests, knowledge, and use patterns of pesticides. A structured pretested questionnaire was administered via personal interviews, and observational checklists were used. Mosquitoes were the most prevalent pests (83%), followed by cockroaches (69%) and rats (52%). Pesticides were the most preferred method for pest control (98%), with insecticide spray being the most common form of application (71.4%). Pesticide application was inappropriately done in many households mainly due to inadequate knowledge on use. Only 48% of the respondents read manufacturer's instructions for use. Information on what pesticide to use was obtained from friends (53.1%), points of sales (48%). Educational interventions particularly at points of sale would be a critical avenue for promoting safe use of pesticides in households.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Animals
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Data Collection
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Housing
  • Humans
  • Insecta
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pest Control* / economics
  • Pest Control* / methods
  • Pesticides*
  • Rats
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Uganda
  • Urban Population
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Pesticides